Van Huizen’s boys to play Australia A, not World No 1

Malaysian men’s hockey team left for Perth yesterday to play five friendly matches against Australia A to prepare for the Asian Games next month.

Yes, Australia A, and not the World No 1 Australian side.

The only Australian in team A who played on the recent Champions Trophy gold medal side is goalkeeper Johan Durst, who collected his first and only cap for the World beaters in Breda, Netherlands.

Malaysia coach Stephen van Huizen said they will be using the friendlies to try out some new tactics, set-pieces and strategies.

“This is our final stage of preparation for for the Asian Games, and even though some criticised the tour, we made the decision based on availability of opponents and budget,” said van Huizen.

And on the Hockey Australia website: “Hockey Australia confirms that the Australia A men’s team will compete in a series of practice matches against Malaysia on July 24-Aug 1 at Perth Hockey Stadium.

“These five matches will provide valuable international experience to members of the Australian A squad as well as several members of the Australian National squad.

“Malaysia are a competitive international side, currently sitting 12th in the FIH world rankings. Playing a high calibre side like Malaysia is the perfect preparation for Australia’s A side.”

Notable inclusions in the team for Australia are Josh Simmonds who is yet to debut for Australia, Josh Beltz who has 28 caps for the Kookaburras, Corey Weyer who debuted for the Kookaburras in 2017 and returning Olympian Kieran Govers.

As for Malaysia, they are Down Under to achieve their target of winning gold medal at the Asian Games and qualifying for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics after 20 years in the wilderness.

Failing which, Malaysia will have to try their luck in a tougher Olympic Qualifier road, which is riddled with potholes and slippery as well as winding.